"Imagination" by Dolly Yazvec
Service and cultural organizations are thrilled to present Aging is an Art Form Virtual Art Exhibition, the artistic result of a collaboration this past summer to provide older adults with opportunities to create, connect and celebrate the arts. The online show includes photography and poetry.
A series of digital classes were hosted by Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities and taught by Summit County artists Yoly Miller, who taught the photo class, and Greg Milo, who led the poetry sessions. Aging is an Art Form was an exciting new initiative aiming to change the narrative around what it means to grow older. The classes were free for adults 60+ and their caregivers.
“Our 60 and over population are valuable, vibrant and creative people in our communities, yet also at a higher risk for social isolation, especially in today’s environment,” said Lori Smith, training coordinator for Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities. “Aging is an Art Form will provide stress relief, connection with other older adults, and an opportunity to showcase creativity, even while physically distancing.”
Partners of Direction Home include ArtsNow, Summit Artspace, and Summit Metro Parks, thanks to support from Akron Community Foundation.
ARTISTS STATEMENTS
Dolly Yazvec (Imagination poem): I love all forms of art, poetry, music, painting. I retired after many years of hairdressing. I always had some kind of project that I dabbled in. Sang in church choir, painted off and on, and wrote poems. Mostly for family and friends. Since the pandemic has restricted me to home more, I started to reboot some of my old interests. Thanks to the Agency on Aging, I have been able to pursue these interests from home and still feel connected to people who also have similar interests. I just celebrated my 80th birthday this July and I am so happy to be blessed with the ability to do the things I love. Thanks to all the help of this program. I look forward to more of the programs offered.
Kim Sweeney (marigold, kale, and collard greens photos): Age 55. What I enjoyed about the workshop: Learning how to better use the camera feature on my phone to capture moments in my life. Inspiration behind my photos: My garden.
Janet Bragg: Aging as an art form allows one to pursue new interests, discover hidden talents, and appreciate the beauty in the world.
AGING IS AN ART FORM EXHIBIT WORKS
